Founder Q&A
Our small family business began with a simple but urgent need—to help improve the skin health of our two youngest children. They live with multiple food allergies, asthma, and severe eczema, and finding safe, effective skincare felt nearly impossible. We tried countless “hypoallergenic” and over-the-counter products, but most caused more harm than good—often stinging and leaving their skin even more irritated. After years of frustration, and with a combined 21-year background in healthcare and cosmetology, I knew there had to be a better way. So I got to work.
Maine is home. As a family-owned business, we are inspired by the simple, hardworking way of life that Maine is known for. We source quality ingredients whenever possible, create our products by hand in Waterville, and believe in keeping things simple, natural, and practical. The changing seasons, local farming community, and appreciation for craftsmanship all play a role in shaping the products we make. Maine isn't just where our business is located—it's part of who we are.
Heritage Homestead Co. was born out of a personal need, not a business plan. When my daughters struggled with allergies, eczema, and sensitivities to many store-bought products, I began making simple tallow-based skincare using ingredients I could trust. What started in my kitchen for my family has grown into a brand carried in stores across the country. We render our own locally sourced grass-fed beef tallow in small batches and formulate products with simple, recognizable ingredients. With a background in both cosmetology and the medical field, I bring a unique perspective that combines skin health, ingredient knowledge, and traditional skincare practices. Every product is made by hand in Maine with a focus on quality, transparency, and keeping skincare simple. Our goal has always been the same: create effective products that families can feel good about using.
One of our biggest challenges has been marketing and building brand awareness without having a brick-and-mortar storefront. As a small family-owned business, we've had to be creative about getting our products in front of customers through farmers markets, wholesale partnerships, social media, and word-of-mouth referrals. Without a physical location, it can take more time for people to discover and experience our products. However, that challenge has also pushed us to focus on building strong relationships with our customers and retail partners, which has helped us grow from a few local markets to dozens of retail locations. Every new customer and store partnership has been earned one connection at a time.
One of our next projects is creating a small farm stand shop here on our property. We’re transforming a shed into a cozy space where customers can stop by, smell our products, browse in person, and shop directly from us. As an online and wholesale business, we’re excited to finally offer a place where people can experience our products firsthand and connect with the story behind Heritage Homestead Co. It’s a small step, but one we’ve been looking forward to for a long time.
The tallow thick stick
A look at their work
